Closure system for packaging

ABSTRACT

The present invention is a system for closure of data storage or other packages. The present invention relates particularly to stacks of one or more rigid holders for holding compact disc and DVDs. The closure devices of the present invention are made to fit various numbers of display devices. In one embodiment, interlocking extension surfaces are pressed together to secure the holders. The extensions have locking ribs along contacting sides. The closure system is adjustable to accommodate various numbers and sizes of rigid holders. Another embodiment utilizes an elastic band that is attached to a cover holder and stretched over a cantilevered finger on the opposite cover. The band stretches to accommodate various numbers and sizes of holders. Another embodiment has an extension off a cover attached by a living hinge. The extension snaps onto the top surface of an opposite cover to secure the stack of rigid holders closed. Another embodiment uses straps connected to the cover and base holders and connected together with buckle, snap or micro hook and loop connections.

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/496,017, filed Aug. 19, 2003.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Data storage devices are delicate devices that are easily damaged by scratches, dirt and other consequences of handling. As such, there is a need for carrying and storing cases and other devices that protect compact discs, DVDs and other products during transporting and between uses.

Present solutions to this problem in packaging involve cases that allow the user to carry multiple discs at once. However, not all of these devices are easy to use.

Many existing systems for transporting data storage devices do not allow secure and simple movement of multiple discs.

Needs exist for improved methods for storing, protecting and transporting data storage devices in a less expensive and more secure manner.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is a system for closure of data storage or other packaging. The present invention relates particularly to stacks of one or more rigid holders for holding compact discs and DVDs. Closure devices are made to fit various numbers and configurations of display devices.

In one embodiment, a base and cover of a closure device have interlocking extension surfaces. These extension surfaces protrude downward and upward from the cover and base of the storage device, respectively. The extension surfaces overlap and lock together to prevent the stack of rigid holders from opening. Ribs, on the sides of the extension surfaces that contact each other, lock into place to prevent movement of the cover and base. The ribs can have various configurations to facilitate locking. The user pulls on the upper extension surface, away from the stack of rigid holders, and simultaneously pulls the cover and base apart. Once the ends of the locking extension surfaces are separated, the stack of display devices is opened like a book, with the rigid holders as pages. One size closure device can be used for stacks of different numbers and widths of rigid holders.

In another embodiment, a flexible, elastic band is attached to either a cover holder or a base holder and stretched from the attachment holder around a cantilevered finger on the opposite holder. The elastic band prevents the cover and base from separating. The cantilevered finger is larger at its base and smaller towards the attachment point. The elastic band sits flush with the cover and base holders and can be used with a variety of number and width holders.

Another embodiment uses an extension attached to either the cover or base holder. The extension is attached via a living hinge. The extension fits over the opposite holder and engages a rim or depression on the opposite holder or is attached by other mechanical means. This prevents separation of the cover and base holders. The extension can have various profiles depending on the attachment type. The height of the rigid holder set determines the length of the extension.

Alternative attachment methods use straps connected to the cover or base holders. One strap is mechanically attached to the cover holder and another strap is mechanically attached on the base holder. The straps are then connected together using buckle, snaps or micro hook and loop connection means.

These and further and other objects and features of the invention are apparent in the disclosure, which includes the above and ongoing written specification, with the claims and the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a ribbed cover for a stack of rigid holders.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a ribbed base for a stack of rigid holders.

FIG. 3 is an end view of a stack of rigid holders with the closure system completely open.

FIG. 4 is an end view of a stack of rigid holders with the closure system closed.

FIG. 5 is a close-up view of angular locking ribs.

FIG. 6 is a close-up view of rounded locking ribs.

FIG. 7 is an end view of angular locking ribs connected on a locked stack of rigid holders.

FIG. 8 is an end view of rounded locking ribs connected on a locked stack of rigid holders.

FIG. 9 is an end view of flat extensions connected on a locked stack of rigid holders.

FIG. 10 is an end view of flat extensions closed around a larger stack of rigid holders.

FIG. 11 is an oblique perspective diagram of a closed stack of rigid holders.

FIG. 12 is a head on diagram of a closed stack of rigid holders.

FIG. 13 is an end view showing the enlarged cover and base holders for an elastic closure system.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an elastic closure system with band and finger.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a stack of rigid holders closed with an elastic band closure.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a base or cover holder with cutouts to accommodate an elastic band.

FIG. 17 is a top view diagram of a base or cover holder cutout.

FIG. 18 is a bottom view diagram of a base or cover holder cutout.

FIG. 19 is a side view diagram of a base or cover holder cutout.

FIG. 20 is a diagram of an elastic band.

FIG. 21 is a close-up view of the elastic band and finger.

FIG. 22 is a side view diagram of the elastic band and finger.

FIG. 23 is an end view of a closed stack of rigid holders with a flush elastic band.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of an open extension closure system.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a closed extension closure system.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a closed stack of rigid holders with a snap extension.

FIG. 27 is a close-up view of the hinge and extension.

FIG. 28 is a close-up view of a cutout.

FIG. 29 is an end view of the connection system with a closed extension.

FIG. 30 is a close-up view of an overhanging hinge connection.

FIG. 31 is an extension with an angular, inward sloping connector.

FIG. 32 is an extension with a rounded connector.

FIG. 33 is an extension with a rounded, inward sloping connector.

FIG. 34 is an extension with a rounded, vertical connector.

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a buckle connection.

FIG. 36 is a perspective view of a snap connection.

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a micro hook and loop connection system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention is a system for closure of data storage or other types of packaging. The present invention relates particularly to stacks of one or more rigid holders for holding compact discs and DVDs. The closure devices of the present invention are made to fit various numbers and configurations of display devices. In one embodiment, interlocking extensions are pressed together to secure the holders. The extensions have locking ribs along contacting sides. The closure system is adjustable to accommodate various numbers and sizes of rigid holders. Another embodiment utilizes an elastic band that is attached to a cover holder and stretched over a cantilevered finger on the opposite cover. The band stretches to accommodate various numbers and sizes of holders. Another embodiment has an extension off a cover attached by a living hinge. The extension snaps onto the top surface of an opposite cover to secure the stack of rigid holders closed. Another embodiment uses straps connected to the cover and base holders and connected together with buckle, snap or micro hook and loop connections.

FIG. 1 shows a cover holder 1 of a first embodiment of the present invention. The cover holder 1 is sized to contain display devices. The cover holder 1 has a spine edge 3, opening edge 5, top edge 7 and bottom edge 9. One or more cutouts 11 for a mechanical holder binding system are located on the spine edge 3. An extension surface 13 extends from the opening edge 5 of the cover holder 1. Along the extension surface 13 facing the spine edge 3 are multiple engaging ribs 15. The extension surface 13 and engaging ribs 15 may have various profiles. The inner surface 17 of the cover holder 1 may also have booklet clips 19 for holding booklets or other printed information.

FIG. 2 shows a base holder 21. The base holder 21 has a spine edge 23, opening edge 25, top edge 27 and bottom edge 29. One or more cutouts 11 for a mechanical holder binding system are located on the spine edge 23. An extension surface 31 extends from the opening edge 25 of the base holder 21. Along the extension surface 31 facing away from the spine edge 23 are multiple engaging ribs 15. The extension surface 31 and engaging ribs 15 may have various profiles. The inner surface 33 of the base holder 21 may also have booklet clips 19 for holding booklets or other printed information.

FIG. 3 shows a hinged stack 35 of individual rigid holders 37 connected to each other and to a cover holder 1 and base holder 21 and in a fully open position. Along the spine edges 3, 23 of the cover holder 1 and base holder 21, are one or more cutouts 11 that accommodate mechanical clips from a mechanical binding system. One or more individual holders 37 are attached together using mechanical clips to form a stack of rigid holders 35. Each mechanical clip is hinged to its neighbor with a living hinge that allows the stack of rigid holders 35 to open like a book, with the individual rigid holders 37 as pages. A cover 39 with or without printed graphics can be attached to the cover holder 1 and base holder 21 to provide users with information about the contents of the package.

The cover holder 1 and base holder 21 have a closure device with interlocking engaging ribs 15. The engaging ribs 15 on the extension surfaces 13, 31 come in contact and lock together, preventing the stack of holders 35 from opening. FIG. 4 shows a stack of rigid holders 35 completely closed with the ribs 15 of both the cover holder 1 and base holder 21 locked together.

FIGS. 5 and 6 show a detail of the extension surfaces 13, 31 and engaging ribs 15. As the cover holder 1 and base holder 21 are brought together from a fully opened position, the ribs 15 on both holders lock with a protruding portion of one rib 15 settling in a valley between two ribs 15 on the opposite cover. The ribs 15 can have various configurations to facilitate locking. The engaging ribs can be angular 45, as shown in FIG. 5, or rounded 41, as shown in FIG. 6. Preferably, the leading edges 43 of each extension surface 13, 31 will have a lead in angle to facilitate proper contact and functioning of the closure device.

FIGS. 7-10 show various formats of engaging ribs 15. FIG. 7 is a diagram of angular locking ribs 45 connected on a locked stack of rigid holders 35. A stop 47 may also be molded into one of the covers to ensure that the locking ribs 15 are not over-tightened. FIG. 8 is a diagram of rounded 41 locking ribs connected on a locked stack of rigid holders 35. FIG. 9 is a diagram of flat extension surfaces 49 connected on a locked stack of rigid holders 35. The extension surface 13 of the cover holder 1 is lifted and slid over the extension surface 31 of the base holder 21. The interaction between the extension surfaces 13, 31 prevents the stack of rigid holders 35 from opening. FIG. 10 shows that this closure system is useful for various sizes and numbers of individual rigid holders 37. The engaging ribs 15 do not have to completely contact for the device to be closed.

FIGS. 11 and 12 show a stack of rigid holders with the closure system installed. Various configurations of extension surfaces 13, 31 are possible. A tab 51 on the extension surface 13 of the cover holder 1 allows a user to grip and lift the extension surface 13 away from the other extension surface 31. To open a closed stack of rigid holders 35, a user pulls on the upper extension surface 13 away from the stack of rigid holders 35 until the two sets of engaging ribs 15 are clear of each other. The user then pulls the cover holder 1 and base holder 21 apart. Once the ends of the extension surfaces 13, 31 are separated, the stack of display devices 35 is opened like a book, with the individual rigid holders 37 as pages. A single sized closure device can be used for stacks of different numbers and widths of rigid holders 37.

FIG. 13 shows another embodiment of the display device closure system. A stack of rigid holders 61 has a cover holder 53 and a base holder 55 that extend beyond the standard individual rigid holders 57. A cover 59 can be attached to the cover holder 53 and base holder 55.

FIG. 14 shows the cover holder 53 and base holder 55 with a flexible, elastic band or bungi 63 that can be attached to either the cover holder 53 or a base holder 55. A cantilevered finger 65 on the holder opposite where the elastic band 63 is attached is where the elastic band 63 is stretched around to secure the stack of rigid holders 61. The elastic band 63 prevents the cover holder 53 and base holder 55 from separating. The cantilevered finger 65 is larger furthest from the base and smaller towards the attachment point. Both the elastic band 63 and cantilevered finger 65 are attached to edges of the holders opposite the spine.

FIG. 15 shows the elastic band 63 stretched around the cantilevered finger 65. The elastic band 63 sits flush with the cover holder 53 and base holder 55 and can stretch to be used to accommodate a variety of number and width of holders.

FIG. 16 shows the details of the elastic band 63 attachments to the holders 53, 55. Two parallel notches 67, 69 are molded into the cover 53 or base 55 holder. The notches 67, 69 are sized to accommodate the elastic band 63. FIG. 17 shows a top view of the elastic band 63 attachment. FIG. 18 shows a bottom view of the elastic band 63 attachment. The elastic band 63 wraps around a molded section 71 between the two notches 67, 69. The elastic band 63 is locked into place. FIG. 19 shows a front view of the elastic band 63 attachment. The elastic band 63 sits flush with the cover holder 53 or base holder 55. FIG. 20 shows an approximate configuration of the elastic band 63 when it is locked into place at the attachment point.

FIG. 21 shows the attachment of the elastic band 63 to the cantilevered finger 65. The elastic band 63 wraps around the cantilevered finger 65. The cantilevered finger 65 is thinner at the attachment end 73 and wider at the free end 75. This prevents the elastic band 63 from unintentionally sliding off the cantilevered finger 65. FIG. 22 shows the fitting of the elastic band 63 into the cantilevered finger 65.

FIG. 23 shows a stack of rigid holders 61 closed with an elastic band 63. The elastic band 63 sits flush with the ends of the cover holder 53 and base holder 55. In order to open the elastic band 63 closure system, a user simply grips the elastic band 63 and slides it over the cantilevered finger 65.

FIG. 24 shows a further embodiment that uses an extension 77 attached to an edge of either a cover holder 79 or base holder 81 opposite a spine. The extension 77 holds a stack of rigid holders 91 closed. The extension 77 is attached via a living hinge 83. The extension 77 has a protrusion 85. The extension 77 and protrusion 85 fit over the opposite holder 79 and engage a rim or depression 87 on the opposite holder 79 or are attached by other mechanical means. This prevents separation of the cover holder 79 and base holder 81. The extension 77 fits into a cutout 89 so that, when closed, the extension 77 is flush with the outer edges of the cover holder 79 and base holder 81. FIG. 25 shows the extension 77 in a closed position. To open the extension 77, a user pushes on the protrusion 85 until it disengages the rim 87 of the holder or pulls on the extension 77.

FIG. 26 shows an alternative arrangement where the end of the extension 77 has an expanded surface 95 with a snap 93 or other mechanical means of attachment. This arrangement functions in a similar manner to the extension 77 with a protrusion 85.

FIG. 27 is a close-up view of the extension 77 with a living hinge 83. FIG. 28 is a close-up view of the cutout 89 that accepts the protrusion 85 of the extension 77. FIG. 29 is a diagram of a stack of rigid holders 91 in a closed position using an extension 77 closure system. The extension 77 is flush with the base holder 81. The protrusion 85 is in a depression 97 and is engaging rim 87. FIG. 30 shows a protrusion 85 engaging the edge 87 of a holder over a cover 99 of printed graphic material. The cover 99 of printed graphic material fits within the rim 87 of the holders, but does not sit flush with the rim 87. The protrusion 85 locks over the remaining edge 87.

The extension can have various profiles depending on the desired attachment type, as shown in FIGS. 31-34. FIG. 31 is an extension 77 with an angular, inward sloping connector 101. FIG. 32 is an extension 77 with a rounded connector 103. FIG. 33 is an extension 77 with a rounded, inward sloping connector 105. FIG. 34 is an extension 77 with a rounded, vertical connector 107.

The fixed holder set height determines the length of the extension 77. The profile of the extension 77 can be variable depending on the specific needs of each system.

FIG. 35 shows a closure system that utilizes a buckle 109. The buckle 109 is connected to a cover holder 111. It is attached via glue or other mechanical attachment means. A strap 113 is glued or otherwise attached to a base holder 115. The strap 113 is stretched across the individual rigid pages 117 between the cover holder 111 and the base holder 115 and fastened to the buckle 109. This prevents the individual pages 117 from separating during storage and transport. Additionally, the buckle 109 provides a decorative element to the package.

FIG. 36 shows a closure system that utilizes a snap 119. One strap 121 is glued or otherwise mechanically attached to a cover holder 111. The strap 121 has one end attached to the side of the cover holder 111 opposite an outer cover 123. The strap 121 is then threaded through a cutout on the cover holder 111. Another strap 125 is similarly attached to the base holder 115. The cover strap 121 has a male snap connection and the base holder strap 125 has a female snap connection. When the straps 121, 125 are stretched over one another and pressed together, the snap 119 is connected and the individual rigid pages 117 are held closed. The straps 121, 125 sit flush with the covers of the package.

FIG. 37 shows a closure system that utilizes a micro hook and loop connection system. One strap 127 is glued or otherwise mechanically attached to a cover holder 111. The strap 127 has one end attached to the side of the cover holder 111 opposite an outer cover 129. The strap 127 is then threaded through a cutout on the cover holder 111. Another strap 131 is similarly attached to the base holder 115. The cover strap 127 has loop material on the surface facing away from the individual rigid pages 117 and hook material on the surface facing the rigid pages 117. The base holder strap 131 also has loop material on the surface facing away from the individual rigid pages 117 and hook material on the surface facing the rigid pages 117. When the straps 127, 131 are stretched over one another and pressed together, the micro hook and loop connectors are secured and the individual rigid pages 117 are held closed. The straps 127, 131 sit flush with the covers of the package. The micro hook and loop connection system can be adapted to use with stacks of rigid holders of different sizes.

While the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, modifications and variations of the invention may be constructed without departing from the scope of the invention, which is defined in the following claims. 

1. A closure system apparatus for packaging comprising: a stack of one or more rigid holders, a cover holder with a spine edge, opening edge, top edge and bottom edge, a cover extension surface extending from the opening edge of the cover holder away from the outer surface of the cover holder, one or more engaging ribs on the cover extension surface, a base holder with a spine edge, opening edge, top edge and bottom edge, a base extension surface extending from the opening edge of the base holder away from the outer surface of the base holder, one or more engaging ribs on the base extension surface facing the one or more engaging ribs on the cover extension surface, a connection mechanism for connecting the spine edge of the cover holder, a spine of the stack of one or more rigid holders and the spine edge of the base holder, wherein the one or more engaging ribs on the cover extension surface contact the one or more engaging ribs on the base extension surface when the closure apparatus is in a closed position, and wherein the contact prevents movement of the cover holder and base holder relative to one another.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more rigid holders are containers for holding digital media.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the connection mechanism is a series of hinges.
 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the hinges are hinged mechanical binding clips attached to the spine edge of the cover holder, the spine of the stack of one or more rigid holders and the spine edge of the base holder, and wherein the hinged mechanical binding clips are locked into position.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising molded clips in the cover holder and base holder for holding printed materials.
 6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein a user opens the closure apparatus by gripping the outermost of the cover extension surface or the base extension surface, lifting the cover extension surface or the base extension surface away from the opposite extension surface, and pulling the cover holder and the base holder apart.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein a user closes the closure apparatus by pushing the cover holder towards the base holder, and sliding the one or more engaging ribs on the cover extension surface against the one or more engaging ribs on the base extension surface.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the cover extension surface and the base extension surface have leading angles for facilitating proper contact and alignment of the closure apparatus.
 9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more engaging ribs on the cover extension surface and the base extension surface are rounded.
 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more engaging ribs on the cover extension surface and the base extension surface are angular.
 11. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a stop on the cover holder or base holder for preventing over-tightening of the closure apparatus.
 12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more engaging ribs on the cover holder and base holder are flat.
 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein a user lifts the flat engaging ribs of the cover holder over the flat engaging ribs of the base holder and the cover holder is held in position relative to the base holder by a tension interaction.
 14. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the cover extension surface and the base extension surface do not overlap completely.
 15. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a tab on the outermost of either the cover extension surface or base extension surface for facilitating opening and closing by a user.
 16. A closure method for packaging comprising: providing a stack of one or more rigid holders, providing a cover holder with a spine edge, opening edge, top edge and bottom edge, a cover extension surface extending from the opening edge of the cover holder away from the outer surface of the cover holder, and one or more engaging ribs on the cover extension surface, providing a base holder with a spine edge, opening edge, top edge and bottom edge, a base extension surface extending from the opening edge of the base holder away from the outer surface of the base holder, and one or more engaging ribs on the base extension surface facing the one or more engaging ribs on the cover extension surface, providing a connection mechanism for connecting the spine edge of the cover holder, a spine of the stack of one or more rigid holders and the spine edge of the base holder, opening the closure apparatus by gripping the outermost of the cover extension surface or the base extension surface, lifting the cover extension surface or the base extension surface away from the opposite extension surface, pulling the cover holder and the base holder apart, closing the closure apparatus by pushing the cover holder towards the base holder, and sliding the one or more engaging ribs on the cover extension surface against the one or more engaging ribs on the base extension surface.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the one or more rigid holders are containers for holding digital media.
 18. The method of claim 16, wherein the connection mechanism is a series of hinges.
 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the hinges are hinged mechanical binding clips attached to the spine edge of the cover holder, the spine of the stack of one or more rigid holders and the spine edge of the base holder, and wherein the hinged mechanical binding clips are locked into position.
 20. The method of claim 16, wherein clips are molded in the cover holder and base holder for holding printed materials. 21-91. (canceled) 